(REPOST: Lancashire Post)

Dozens of charging points for electric cars are due to be installed across the county next year. But is Preston ready for the next transport revolution and are residents and businesses open to ditching petrol power? JAMES ILLINGWORTH reports.

Cheaper to run, environmentally friendly, quiet, quick and reliable. So say the advocates of electric cars as Lancashire is on the cusp of embracing a new transport revolution.

So why are there not more on our roads at present?

Well, it appears that issues with practicality and up-front costs may be a factor, meaning it may be a number of years yet before our roads before petrol cars are a minority on our roads.

A focus on Lancashire’s charge toward electric transport has been sparked by a new scheme backed by County Hall.

Starting in early 2018 – aided by funding from the Department for Transport – the local authority will create 150 charging points.

“We have received funding from the Department for Transport to establish a network of 150 charging points to ensure owners of electric cars can find somewhere convenient to charge their battery wherever they go within Lancashire.”

County Coun Keith Iddon, cabinet member for highways, said: “We have received funding from the Department for Transport to establish a network of 150 charging points to ensure owners of electric cars can find somewhere convenient to charge their battery wherever they go within Lancashire.

“The scheme aims to increase take-up of electric vehicles by ensuring owners can always find somewhere to recharge locally.

“We have very recently appointed a contractor to install them, and are now working with them to finalise the programme. We expect the first charging points will begin being installed in the New Year.”

Meanwhile, Preston City Council has recently upgraded its facilities at Avenham multi-storey car park.

Read more